Cane Corso: Your Complete Guide To The Roman War Dog

The Cane Corso is an impressive dog breed with a rich history. Tracing back to ancient Roman times, this breed was once used as a war dog, and its bravery and power are still evident today. Known for its well-muscled build, the Cane Corso is less bulky compared to its Mastiff relatives, allowing it to move with surprising agility for its size. If you’re considering adding a Cane Corso puppy to your family, it’s important to choose a reputable breeder who prioritizes a dog’s health and temperament.

As a potential dog owner, you want to make sure your Cane Corso is raised in a loving environment that ensures a happy and healthy life. Breeders like Shari Cupertino from Dal Cielo Cane Corso focus on both the physical and mental well-being of their dogs. 

If you’re looking into the Cane Corso breed, it helps to consult experts like Shari who understand the breed inside out. It’s crucial to learn about the proper care, training, and socialization required to bring out the best in these majestic animals. By seeking advice from experienced individuals, you’ll be better prepared for the rewarding experience of owning this loyal and protective breed.

Cane Corso Keypoints

1. Cane Corsos are extremely protective of their families, showcasing deep loyalty and a natural guarding instinct.
2. This breed is highly intelligent, excelling in obedience and working roles when properly trained.
3. Cane Corsos require regular, rigorous exercise to maintain their physical health and prevent behavioral issues.
4. Extensive and early socialization is crucial for this breed to ensure they are well-adjusted and non-aggressive towards strangers and other animals.
5. With a short coat, Cane Corsos have minimal grooming needs but still require regular brushing and bathing.
6. Due to their strong will and size, Cane Corsos need firm, consistent training from an experienced owner to thrive in family and social settings.

History and Origin

The Cane Corso descends from ancient Roman war dogs (just like the Rottweiler), a mastiff-type referred to as the ‘Roman molosser’. The Old Roman molosser dogs were known for their might and were used in war, but the Cane Corso’s role evolved over time. 

In Southern Italy, particularly in regions like Basilicata, Campania, and Apulia, the breed adapted to life on the farm and was utilized for managing cattle and swine. These catch dogs also served as bodyguards and were held in high esteem for their protective instincts.

In 1994, it was fully recognized by the Italian Kennel Club. The breed received international validation when the FCI accepted the Corso in 2007.

Is The Cane Corso Right For Me? Pros and Cons

Owning a Cane Corso comes with a unique set of advantages and challenges. This table outlines the key pros and cons associated with this powerful and charismatic breed, helping potential owners make an informed decision.

Understanding these pros and cons is crucial for anyone considering a Cane Corso as a pet. Their protective nature and intelligence can make them outstanding pets for the right owner, but their size, strength, and exercise needs also demand a significant commitment.

Cane Corso Temperament & Behavior

The Cane Corso is renowned for its remarkable intelligence and versatility, earning its reputation as a steadfast and loyal companion. Shari Cupertino describes them as “intelligent, loyal, eager to please, versatile, and intensely loyal to their humans, but also assertive and willful.” This dual nature of being both affectionate and dominant makes them unique among breeds.

Aggression and Guardian Instinct

Cane Corsos possess a strong guardian instinct, naturally predisposing them to protect their territory and loved ones. While not inherently aggressive, their protective nature can manifest as aggression if not properly managed through training and socialization. 

It’s crucial for owners to understand and respect the breed’s capabilities and to train them consistently from an early age to ensure they are well-adjusted and safe family members.

Suitability as Family Dogs

Cane Corsos can make excellent family pets as they are known to be protective and devoted. As Cupertino notes, “They would probably protect you with their life. They like to go with you everywhere… a lot of fun, just like a family member.” This breed thrives on strong bonds with family members and enjoys being involved in family activities.

Interaction with Children

Corsi are generally good with children, especially when raised with them from puppyhood. However, their large size and strong protective instincts require careful management. Young children should be supervised to ensure safe interactions, and the dog should be socialized to understand the difference between familiar people and genuine threats. 

For example, the breed’s instinct to protect may lead them to misinterpret a sudden approach by a neighbor’s child retrieving a ball as a threat. Similarly, if a Cane Corso perceives another child hurting their human sibling, they might intervene, which could be risky.

Considerations for Potential Owners

Linking to the broader understanding of breed-specific behaviors, a study suggests that like many breeds, the Cane Corso’s behavior can be influenced by genetics and environment. 

The study identifies them as part of a group characterized by high aggressivity but low reactivity/immaturity, noting that large, heavy breeds like the Cane Corso can be less excitable but more challenging to manage in confined spaces. 

This underscores the importance of appropriate training and socialization tailored to the specific needs of the breed.

Pro Tip: When coming home, make sure your dog knows it’s you. Because of their strong defense drive, they are known to be aggressive if they are surprised by someone suddenly entering their space.

Cane Corso Physical Appearance

When you meet a Cane Corso, its robust and athletic build is immediately noticeable. This breed exhibits a dignified and powerful presence, reflective of its heritage as a capable hunter and guardian. Let’s look at some key points in their breed standard.

Color Variations & Color Genetics

Cane Corsos come in a variety of colors, including black, fawn, gray, and different patterns like brindle (a striped pattern). The color called “formentino” is also a fave among Cane lovers. This is a pale fawn or blue fawn color with gray or lilac mask.

A study discussed in a  reveals how these colors are passed down to puppies.

Predicting Puppy Colors

When two Cane Corsos of the same color (like black or fawn) are bred, there’s a high chance (over 70%) that their puppies will be the same color. This makes it easier for breeders to expect certain colors. However, for patterns like brindle, the puppies’ colors can vary a lot even in the same litter. This is because these patterns are influenced by more complicated genetics.

Complex Colors

Some coat colors and patterns, like ticking (small spots of color) or greying, are still not fully understood in terms of genetics. It’s thought that some yet-to-be-discovered genes could affect how dark or light a coat color appears.

Fun Fact: Coat Color in the Cane Corso is actually linked to how long they live (their longevity). We’ll discuss that more below when we talk about the expected lifespan of this breed.

Distinct Features

It’s hard to miss the muscular framework of the Cane Corso, wrapped in a short, stiff, and shiny coat. Their large head, squared and powerful, presents with a slight convergence of the muzzle and skull planes. Their eyes are medium-sized, almond-shaped, and their expression is alert. The Cane Corso’s ears, which can be cropped or uncropped, add to their keen and vigilant demeanor.

How Big Does The Cane Corso Get?

A well-proportioned giant breed, the Cane Corso stands tall with males ranging from 25 to 27½ inches at the withers and females slightly smaller, between 23½ and 26 inches. The size of the breed fits its profile as a protector, with males exuding a particularly imposing figure while females maintain this breed’s signature athletic stance. 

The Practicalities of Cane Corso Ownership

Owning a Cane Corso comes with a unique set of responsibilities and rewards. As a large and powerful breed, they require specific considerations to ensure they integrate well into household environments and family life.

Is a Cane Corso a Good House Dog?

Cane Corsos can be excellent house dogs, provided they receive adequate exercise and training. Shari Cupertino notes, “They’re very well behaved in the house as long as they burn up some energy.” 

This breed needs to engage in regular physical activity to remain calm and content indoors. Without sufficient exercise, a Cane Corso may become restless or exhibit disruptive behaviors. With the right amount of activity and mental stimulation, however, they are calm, attentive, and protective companions inside the home.

Space Requirements

The Corsi are close quarter guardians and prefer to live indoors with their family. While some committed owners can keep these dogs in apartments, they mostly need space and do best in homes with a yard.

Living with a Cane Corso

The daily realities of living with a Cane Corso involve accommodating their need for interaction, exercise, and guidance. This breed thrives on being part of the family activities and requires a firm, consistent leadership to understand their place within the home. 

They are naturally protective and may require ongoing training to manage their guarding instincts appropriately. Additionally, due to their size and strength, ensuring they have enough space both indoors and outdoors is crucial for their well-being.

Owning a Cane Corso for Beginners

For those new to the breed, owning a Cane Corso demands thorough research and a strong commitment. Prospective owners should educate themselves about the breed’s characteristics, care needs, and common health issues. 

It’s also important to understand the legal and social responsibilities associated with owning such a powerful dog. Connecting with experienced breeders and Cane Corso owners, attending breed-specific events, and reading up on the breed can provide invaluable insights and preparation.

Costs of Ownership

On average, you can expect to pay between $1,500 to $3,000 for a Cane Corso puppy from a reputable breeder. Puppies from exceptional lines, especially those that are show quality or from award-winning lineage, can cost upwards of $4,000 to $6,000 or more.

It’s important to note that the initial purchase price is just the beginning. You should also consider the ongoing costs of ownership, which include food, veterinary care, training, and supplies. These expenses can add up, so it’s essential to ensure you’re prepared for the long-term financial commitment of owning a Cane Corso.

Cane Corso Training and Socialization

Training a Cane Corso is essential for harnessing their capabilities and ensuring they become well-adjusted members of society. This large and powerful breed requires a firm, consistent training approach from an early age to manage its strong will and inherent protective nature.

Basic Training Principles

For Cane Corsos, early and consistent training is crucial. Start training the moment your puppy comes home. Focus on basic obedience commands like sit, stay, come, and down. These foundational skills are crucial for instilling discipline and setting boundaries. 

Due to their assertive nature, Cane Corsos need to understand clear leadership and structure within the household. Positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, are effective, but it’s important to also be firm and consistent to establish respect and control.

Socializing Your Cane Corso Puppy

As Shari Cupertino emphasizes, “Socialization is extremely important. That’s another good reason to take ’em everywhere you go.” Exposing your Cane Corso to different environments, people, and controlled situations from a young age helps them become more adaptable and less reactive. 

However, socialization for a Cane Corso does not typically include dog parks or doggy daycares, as these environments can be overly stimulating and may provoke their guarding instincts.

 Instead, focus on controlled exposure where the puppy learns to be neutral and non-reactive to strangers and other dogs. This involves training them to ignore distractions and maintain calmness while out in public. Daily walks in varied but controlled environments where the puppy can observe from a distance and gradually decrease this distance under controlled exposure are beneficial.

Training as Service Dogs

Cane Corsos can be trained as service dogs due to their intelligence and loyalty. Their adaptability allows them to excel in roles that match their physical capabilities and protective nature. 

Training a Cane Corso to be a service dog includes extensive socialization to ensure they are reliable and safe in various public settings. It’s important that their training regime emphasizes obedience and task-specific skills from an early age. The goal is to develop a dog that is both helpful and behaves impeccably in public spaces.

Cane Corso vs. Other Breeds

The Cane Corso is a breed of notable strength and robustness, making it a fascinating subject for comparison with other breeds, particularly when considering its capabilities in contrast to those of the American Pit Bull Terrier, another breed known for its strength.

Cane Corso vs Pitbull: Strength Comparison

The Cane Corso and the Pitbull are both muscular and powerful, but they differ significantly in size, temperament, and historical roles. The Cane Corso is larger, typically standing 23.5 to 27.5 inches at the shoulder and weighing between 88 to 120 pounds. 

Pitbulls are more compact, standing 17 to 21 inches tall and weighing 30 to 65 pounds. Historically, the Cane Corso was used in rural Italy as a guardian of property and livestock, a role that required both formidable size and an intimidating presence. In contrast, Pitbulls were originally bred in England for bull-baiting and later for farm work and companionship after emigrating to America.

In modern settings, both breeds are often cherished family members, but the Cane Corso’s larger size and strength make it more suited to roles that require guarding and protection. Meanwhile, Pitbulls are celebrated for their agility, loyalty, and friendliness, making them excellent companions and, in many cases, service animals.

Cane Corso Bite Force

One of the measures of a dog’s strength, particularly for guarding breeds, is its bite force. The Cane Corso is renowned for having one of the most powerful bites among canines. 

Scientific measurements have recorded their bite force at around 700 pounds per square inch (psi), which is significantly higher than that of most breeds. For comparison, the average dog’s bite force is around 230 to 250 psi, while Pitbulls measure at about 235 psi. This powerful bite is a biological trait that aligns with the Cane Corso’s historical role as a protector against predators and intruders.

Cane Corso Health Concerns

Health Concerns in Cane Corsos

Cane Corsos are magnificent dogs, but like all large breeds, they come with certain health issues that owners should be aware of. Let’s dive into some common health concerns documented in detail by Dr. Alex Gough in his book, Breed Predispositions to Disease in Dogs and Cats.

Musculoskeletal Issues

Hip dysplasia is a common problem in Cane Corsos. In fact, a study in France found that this breed had the highest rate of hip dysplasia among the breeds studied, with nearly 60% of Cane Corsos affected. This painful condition can lead to arthritis and reduced mobility, so it’s something to watch out for, especially as your dog ages.

Eye Health

Cane Corsos are also prone to “cherry eye,” where the gland in the corner of the eye becomes visible. This often happens before they turn a year old and can affect both eyes. If you notice this in your puppy, it’s best to consult your vet.

Other Health Concerns

Besides hip and eye issues, Cane Corsos can have other health challenges like epilepsy, sensitive stomachs, and bloat. Bloat is particularly dangerous as it can be fatal if not treated quickly. It’s important for owners to know the symptoms and preventive steps, such as feeding smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding heavy exercise right after eating.

How Long Do Cane Corsos Live?

On average, Cane Corsos live about 9 to 11 years. A study involving dogs from around the world found that those with black brindle and brindle coats tend to live the longest, sometimes over 10 years. Interestingly, there’s no major difference in lifespan between male and female Cane Corsos.

Cane Corso Care Essentials

Caring for a Cane Corso involves understanding their specific needs in terms of exercise, grooming, and overall health maintenance. These powerful dogs are not only strong and active but also require regular care to stay healthy and happy.

Cane Corso Exercise Requirements

Cane Corsos require regular exercise to maintain their physical health and mental well-being. As Shari Cupertino explains, “You take ’em out, play with them, throw the ball… and they’re well behaved in the house.” 

Nevertheless, this breed benefits from engaging in a variety of physical activities including walks, play sessions, and structured games like fetch which help them use up their energy in a positive way. 

Ensuring they get enough exercise is crucial for preventing behavioral issues that can stem from boredom and excess energy. Activities should be varied and should also consider the dog’s physical health, especially concerning their joints, as they are a large breed.

Ideal Activities for the Cane Corso

The Cane Corso thrives on activities that mentally stimulate and physically challenge them, while also being mindful of their joint health. As a breed built for power rather than endurance, it’s important to select exercises that are suitable for their robust but sensitive structure.

Protection Training

Protection training is an excellent fit for the Cane Corso, playing to their natural guardian instincts. This type of training not only provides them with physical exercise but also mental challenges. It helps reinforce obedience, strengthens the bond between dog and owner, and utilizes their natural inclination to protect in a controlled, productive manner.

Obedience Work

Obedience training is essential for Cane Corsos due to their assertive and willful nature. Regular, structured obedience work ensures they understand and respect commands, which is crucial for a breed of this size and strength. Such training keeps their minds engaged and their behavior predictable, both of which are vital for a harmonious household.

Tug-of-War

Tug-of-war is an excellent game that taps into the Cane Corso’s strength and provides a great physical workout. When playing tug, it’s crucial to establish rules and boundaries to maintain control over the game, ensuring it stops and starts on command. This helps reinforce the dog’s training and obedience, strengthening your leadership and their discipline. Use a sturdy rope or a durable tug toy to withstand their powerful jaws.

Fetch

Fetch is a fantastic activity for the Cane Corso, allowing them to utilize their speed and power in short bursts that are safe for their joints. It also aids in training them to respond to commands such as “fetch,” “bring it back,” and “drop it,” which are useful in daily interactions. Fetch can be played with balls, frisbees, or other safe, throwable toys, ideally in a spacious, enclosed area where the dog can run freely without risk.

Flirt Poles

Chasing a lure on a stick, also known as flirt pole activity, is particularly appealing for Cane Corsos. This involves a lure attached to a rope, which is then affixed to a long stick. As you move the stick, the lure mimics the movements of prey, igniting the Corso’s chase instinct in a fun and controlled manner. This activity is excellent for exercising the dog’s quick reflexes and providing mental stimulation.

Joint-Friendly Exercise

When it comes to physical activities, it’s important to consider exercises that are gentle on the Cane Corso’s joints. Activities like swimming provide excellent low-impact exercise, helping to keep them fit without straining their joints. 

Short to moderate walks, particularly on soft surfaces such as grass or dirt trails, are also beneficial. These activities help maintain their muscle tone and manage their weight, which is crucial for joint health.

Activities to Avoid

It’s important to note that Cane Corsos are not suited for long-distance running. Their heavy build and the potential stress on their joints make high-impact or extended strenuous activities unsuitable. Instead, focusing on strength and agility exercises that do not require long periods of running can be more beneficial and enjoyable for this bree

Grooming and Maintenance

Grooming Needs of the Cane Corso

Cane Corsos have relatively low grooming needs compared to breeds with longer hair. They possess a short, coarse coat that typically requires minimal grooming. However, regular maintenance is still important to keep their coat healthy and clean. Weekly brushing is usually sufficient to remove loose hair and distribute skin oils effectively, which helps to keep their coat shiny and reduce shedding.

Bathing should be done as needed but is not typically required more than once a month unless the dog gets particularly dirty. Beyond coat care, Cane Corsos require regular attention to their nails, ears, and teeth:

Nail Care

Regular nail trimming is crucial; if left untrimmed, long nails can cause discomfort and even lead to problems with walking or running. It’s typically recommended to trim their nails every 3-4 weeks.

Ear Care

Their ears should be checked weekly for signs of infection, irritation, or wax build-up. Clean the ears gently with a vet-approved cleanser to prevent infections.

Dental Care 

Good dental health is essential for preventing disease and maintaining overall health. Brushing your Cane Corso’s teeth several times a week with dog-specific toothpaste can help prevent tartar build-up and gum disease.

In addition to physical grooming, it’s important to check regularly for signs of skin issues or infections, especially given their outdoor activities, which might expose them to different parasites and allergens.

Best Dog Food for a Cane Corso Italiano

Feeding your Cane Corso the right diet is crucial for maintaining their health and vitality. This large and active breed requires high-quality dog food that supports their specific nutritional needs. 

Many Cane Corso owners prefer a raw diet for their dog; however, it’s vital that you know how to create a balanced homemade diet if you pick this route.

Here are some top recommended dog foods specifically suited for Cane Corsos, considering their requirements for muscle support, joint health, and overall well-being.

Orijen Large Breed Formula

• Why It’s Good – This premium dog food is rich in protein from fresh, whole meats. It’s formulated to meet the nutritional levels required by large breeds like the Cane Corso. It includes free-run chicken and turkey, wild-caught fish, and nest-laid eggs.
• Benefits – Supports strong muscle growth and maintenance, and includes glucosamine and chondroitin which are essential for joint health.

Acana Heritage Free-Run Poultry

• Why It’s Good – Acana offers a grain-free recipe that features free-run poultry as the primary ingredient. It’s designed to nourish dogs according to their evolutionary and biological needs.
• Benefits – High in protein, it helps build and maintain lean muscle mass, and is packed with wholesome fruits and vegetables to support immune health.

Blue Buffalo Wilderness Large Breed Chicken Recipe

• Why It’s Good – Specifically formulated for large breeds, this food contains deboned chicken, chicken meal, and fish meal to supply the protein levels needed by a Cane Corso.
• Benefits – Includes LifeSource Bits—a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support immune health, life stage requirements, and a healthy oxidative balance.

Nutro Ultra Large Breed Adult

• Why It’s Good – This dog food blends chicken, lamb, and salmon to deliver high-quality protein and essential amino acids. It’s tailored for large breeds like the Cane Corso, focusing on optimal nutrition.
• Benefits – Contains a mix of 15 superfoods like coconut, chia, kale, and blueberries, which are good for heart health and overall vitality.

Eukanuba Large Breed Adult Dog Food

• Why It’s Good – Formulated for large breeds, Eukanuba’s food includes high-quality animal proteins and optimized levels of fats and carbohydrates.
• Benefits – Promotes lean muscle development and joint health through naturally sourced glucosamine and chondroitin. It also includes 3D DentaDefense System, which is proven to reduce tartar build-up.

Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Maxi Adult

• Why It’s Good – Made specifically for large dogs, Royal Canin Maxi Adult provides precise nutrition that supports bone and joint health as well as overall health with an exclusive complex of antioxidants.
• Benefits –  It helps maintain digestive health with highly digestible proteins and a balanced supply of dietary fiber, and is tailor-made to support the Cane Corso’s robust frame.

When choosing food for your Cane Corso, always consider their individual health needs, activity level, and any specific dietary requirements. Consult with your veterinarian to make sure you’re providing food that meets your dog’s unique needs, especially as they age or if they have health issues.

Steps Finding a Reputable Cane Corso Breeder

Choosing the right breeder is crucial when you decide to bring a Cane Corso into your life. With the breed’s surge in popularity, it’s especially important to be vigilant and selective to avoid unethical breeders who may not prioritize the health and temperament of their dogs.

Start with Professional Associations

A good starting point is the Cane Corso Club of America. This organization is dedicated to the preservation and protection of the breed and provides resources for potential owners. They list breeders who adhere to a specific code of ethics, which includes breeding for health, temperament, and adherence to the breed standard.

Visit and Evaluate Breeders

Once you have a list of potential breeders, it’s important to visit them if possible. This allows you to see the conditions in which the dogs and puppies are raised and to observe firsthand the behavior and health of the animals. 

A reputable breeder will have clean facilities, healthy animals, and a clear affection for their dogs. They should also be knowledgeable about the breed and transparent about their breeding practices.

Check for Health Clearances

Reputable breeders conduct genetic testing to screen for health conditions that are prevalent in Cane Corsos, such as hip dysplasia and heart conditions. They should provide health clearances for both parent dogs and be willing to share all medical information with potential buyers.

Assess the Temperament 

As Shari Cupertino advises, “You wanna find a good breeder that’s gonna be supportive of you through everything… Check the temperament.” Meeting the puppies and at least one of the parents can give you insight into the temperament you can expect in your puppy. Well-socialized puppies that are handled often by the breeder are typically more adaptable and easier to train.

Post-Adoption Support

A good breeder will offer support after you take your puppy home. They should be available to answer questions and provide guidance on caring for your Cane Corso as it grows. This ongoing relationship is invaluable, especially for first-time owners of the breed.

Be Wary of Red Flags

Be cautious of breeders who:

• Do not allow you to see where the dogs are housed.
• Cannot provide proof of genetic health testing.
• Offer puppies at significantly lower prices compared to other breeders without clear reasons.
• Seem to always have puppies available or advertise multiple different breeds.

The boom in the Cane Corso’s popularity has unfortunately attracted some breeders who prioritize profit over the well-being of the dogs. By taking the time to find a breeder who breeds ethically and responsibly, you are more likely to bring home a healthy, well-adjusted puppy that is a perfect fit for your family.

Final Thoughts

When you hear about the Cane Corso, it might seem intimidating due to its large size and protective nature. However, understanding this breed goes beyond its looks. They’re known for their loyalty and are often loving members of the family they belong to. These dogs sure do need consistent training and socialization to bring out their best selves.

References

• Corso, C. and de Forte Race, C., Cane Corso.
• Korec, E., Hančl, M., Bydžovská, M., Chalupa, O. and Korcová, J., 2019. Inheritance of coat colour in the cane Corso Italiano dog. BMC genetics, 20, pp.1-5.
• Korec, E., Chalupa, O., Hančl, M., Korcová, J. and Bydžovská, M., 2017. Longevity of Cane Corso Italiano dog breed and its relationship with hair colour. Open Veterinary Journal, 7(2), pp.170-173.
• Notari, L. and Goodwin, D., 2007. A survey of behavioural characteristics of pure-bred dogs in Italy. Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 103(1-2), pp.118-130

Meet Your Experts

Tamsin De La Harpe

Author

Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs.

Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs.